1-Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Rub Start by mixing all dry ingredients together in a medium bowl. Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, ground mustard, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using) until evenly distributed. This spice blend can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three months, which is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.

2-Step 2: Prepare the Meat Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Silver skin is the thin, silvery membrane on the surface that can become tough and chewy when cooked. Removing it ensures a tender bite throughout. Use a sharp knife to slide under the membrane and pull it away from the meat in one smooth motion.

3-Step 3: Season the Tenderloin Coat the tenderloin with olive oil, making sure to cover the entire surface. This helps the seasoning stick while promoting that beautiful golden-brown color. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire pork tenderloin, using your hands to press the spices into the meat for maximum adhesion.

4-Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. Preheating is essential because it ensures the meat starts cooking immediately when placed in the basket, creating that coveted crust while sealing in juices. Just like with our Air Fryer Korean Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, starting with a hot air fryer makes all the difference in texture.

5-Step 5: Cook the Pork Place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 22 minutes. There is no need to flip the meat during cooking, as the circulating hot air cooks it evenly from all sides. For smaller tenderloins around 1.25 pounds, aim for 20 minutes, while larger cuts up to 1.75 pounds may need the full 22 minutes.

6-Step 6: Check for Doneness Check that the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit at the center of the meat using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin without touching any bone or the bottom of the air fryer basket. This is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for pork while maintaining optimal juiciness.

7-Step 7: Rest and Serve Remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out onto your cutting board. Save any juices that remain in the air fryer basket or on the cutting board to serve over the sliced meat for extra flavor and moisture.